Defensive linemen often need a broader perspective when scouting because their value has to do with disruption, effort and task discipline rather than just raw sack totals.
We’ll be covering players who are eligible at each position in the upcoming 2026 draft, and not all prospects will be drafted early. Edge defenders who develop into a consistent role in a strong defensive system will typically be evaluated based on movement, skill, and role adaptability rather than direct athleticism.
advertise
In this report, we will discuss an edge linebacker from Iowa State. This is my report on Max Llewellyn.
information
Max Llewellyn
Background tag: Top 10 contributors over the years, from rotation to launch development
School: Iowa
Meeting: top ten
Height/weight: 6-5, 263 lbs.
Age at time of enlistment: twenty three
Previous school: not applicable
All-Star Game: shrine bowl
background
A multi-year contributor on Iowa’s defensive front who progressed from a rotation role to a full-time starter, starting all 12 games at defensive end during the 2025 season, earning honorable mention honors from coaches and media and receiving recognition from the Big Ten Conference as the winner of consecutive Iowa Defensive Hustle Awards.
advertise
Noteworthy Statistics
2025 (Iowa):
Games played: 12
Tackle: twenty two
Ways to cope with losses: 9
sack: 6
Forced drop: 2
Hawkeyes lead in sacks and forced fumbles heading into 2025 season
Notable PFF Numbers in 2025
Overall score: 71.8
Pass sprint level: 86.8
Running defense level: 54.6
Total number of snapshots: 507
pressure: 39
Steals and efficiency climbed steadily over the first few seasons, and as Llewellyn’s role expanded, his pass-rushing efficiency peaked during his senior season.
Skill
-
Displays a functional pass rush scheme highlighted by quick, well-timed spin moves
-
Effectively uses two-hand tear to break away when tackle is tumbling on the run
-
Shows awareness of passing lanes and adjusts rushing angles to disrupt the quarterback
-
Comfortable alignment in multiple positions, including two-point, one-handed and standing
-
Continue to play hard and use contact to stay involved in the game
-
Can move through obstacles when engaged sequentially rather than simultaneously
-
The sprinting approach may include some wasted movement, slowing down his ability to finish the game
-
More effective as a pressure generator than a purely speed-based finisher
Player summary
Max Llewellyn has been described as a high-effort, task-sound edge defender whose value is built on technique, awareness and consistency rather than explosive athletic traits. His trajectory at Iowa reflects a player who has earned trust over time and become a reliable presence in a disciplined defensive system.
advertise
From a projection standpoint, Llewellyn wasn’t projected to be a major sack artist at the next level. However, his film and PFF numbers support a player who can generate pressure, disrupt passing lanes and provide stability in defensive rotations. Overall, he projects as a rotational edge defender with a chance to compete at the NFL level for deep snapping and situational pass-rushing work.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: 2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Max Llewellyn, Edge, Iowa
